Briefs: South St. Paul Sings is first step in statewide vocal competition

The South St. Paul Mayor's Youth Task Force and the South St. Paul Public Library are hosting a vocal competition at 6:30 p.m. Thursday at the library, 106 Third Av.

"South St. Paul Sings" is part of a statewide competition, "Minnesota Sings," which is seeking 60 cities around Minnesota to compete.

Each community is asked to hold a contest and select one individual to participate at a competition in St. Paul on Sept. 28. More than $4,500 in prizes will be awarded there.

The competition is open to people ages 15 to 25. There is no cost to participate, but participants must register. Registration forms are available at the South St. Paul City Hall, South St. Paul Public Library, Minnesota Music Factory and by contacting Deb Griffith at 651-554-3230 or deb.griffith@southstpaul.org.

Eagan

Register now for the city's 'Night Out' event Aug. 5

Eagan residents are invited to register their neighborhoods for this year's National Night Out.

Eagan has participated in the event since 1998, with more than 170 neighborhoods taking part last year. Typical neighborhood celebrations include block parties, cookouts, ice cream socials and games geared for families.

The purpose is to increase awareness of crime and strengthen neighborhood spirit and police-community partnerships. In Eagan, the event is sponsored by the police and fire departments and the Eagan Citizens Crime Prevention Association.

Mendota Heights

Police offer $500 reward to help catch vandal

Mendota Heights police are offering a $500 reward to anyone with information leading to the arrest of a suspect for vandalizing homes and damaging vehicles between June 26 and July 1 in the area of Twin Circle and Hunter Lane.

Call the city's 24-hour Tip Line at 651-255-1170 or the police at 651-452-1366 with information regarding this or other criminal activity in the city.